New constraints for geodynamic and seismogenic processes in the Central Mediterranean: Lithospheric Model, Moho Topography, And Ionian Crustal Subduction Seismogenic Volume

Abstract

The study of geodynamic and seismogenic processes of a tectonically active and complex area such as the Central Mediterranean needs a multidisciplinary study by integrating advanced techniques for seismicity characterization, definition of seismogenic structures, and crustallithospheric modeling. In this work we present a high-resolution 3D litospheric model for the Central Mediterranean area, also describing in detail the geometry of the subduction ionic crustal seismogenic volume (CSV), and the most complete and detailed Moho map currently available for this area. We obtained the lithospheric model and the Moho map by analyzing velocity models, gravimetric profiles, interpreted seismic profiles, and conversion of seismic profiles from time (TWT) to depth, and constructed the CSV using the hypocenters of seismic events with a statistical approach. Of the latter, we analyzed its geometric characteristics and compared it with previous models present in the literature. We propose these models, which can be easily updated, as a constraint for understanding the subduction zone and the related seismic and tzunami hazard. We consider them to be helpful tools for high-resolution geophysical studies of the crustal and geodynamic structure of the area, for the identification of new seismogenic sources, and for improving the location and size of the ones already identified. They are also key constraints for improving the accuracy of locating seismic events in the area affected by errors due to the complex topography of the area and the not uniform spatial distribution of seismic stations.